Pagan-Umar, Ward-Rannow, Kerry for school board

As a pediatric healthcare provider and educator, and as the parent of two recent EPHS graduates, I vote for school board candidates who have demonstrated interest in the education and well-being of all children and adolescents. For this reason, I am excited to vote for Francesca Pagan-Umar, Jody Ward-Rannow, and Isaac Kerry for the Eden Prairie School Board.

Francesca Pagan-Umar has been a committed, engaged, and knowledgeable school board member for the past year. Her expertise in education and her familiarity with our schools as a parent have served her well. She is a much needed advocate for mental healthcare resources for our students and for increasing safety for all who learn and work in our schools.

Jody Ward-Rannow also has children in our school district. She has demonstrated her dedication to our students’ education and well-being as president of the Eagle Heights PTO and parent volunteer. She has plans to connect all the school district’s students and families to resources and opportunities. By making the district easier for families to navigate, she will create meaningful change for all students.

Finally, as an Eden Prairie firefighter and first responder, Isaac Kerry is committed to supporting student mental health and preventing violence in our schools. He is also a parent with volunteer experience in our schools. Considering recent events in our community, we need his fresh perspective and plans for improvement. He has a proven track record of supporting education and will make an excellent addition to (the) school board.

Maya Bastian, Eden Prairie